SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Brenda Suru: 40 years of service at Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Brenda Suru has experienced every facet of life at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She started as a student, became an instructor, took on the role of program head and transitioned to the role of associate dean. She is currently serving as the first dean of the new Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades.

She didn't envision a career in academics when she enroled in computer science after taking a career aptitude test in high school.

"Computer science was a career that people didn't think about at the time, but when I did the career test it was the number one choice for me," Suru notes. "I've always liked math, science and problem solving. Computer science is all about solving complex problems."

After her first year in university, she took a year off. When she decided to return to post-secondary, she enroled in Sask Polytech, then SIAST.  She completed the Recreation Technology diploma program and gained a couple of years of experience in the field. Intrigued by an ad for the Microcomputer Management program she returned to her studies, encouraged by her previous positive experience.

"I realize now that both programs equipped me well for my career as an instructor and have significantly contributed to my career progression. The hands-on training and close-knit classes provided me with a solid foundation, enabling me to return and successfully complete my degree in Computer Science at university," Suru reflects on her journey.

 "I've always loved working with students. I taught for 25 years before stepping into the role of program head, where I served for about three years. Then, the opportunity to move into the associate dean role came up," she shares. "Now, holding the position of dean has been an incredible experience, and I truly feel privileged to have such an opportunity. It's been a journey, with a lot of change throughout my professional career. I've had a lot of help along the way and have been fortunate to have amazing role models who guided me."

One constant for Suru through her various positions was to support others in achieving success. Deanna Herman, associate dean of the faculty, credits Suru's dedication to helping others with a shift in her own career.

"Brenda encouraged me to apply for the academic chair position. At the time, it was a new position. We learned it together. I was able to observe her and have her support. It was an unbelievable mentorship opportunity," Herman explains.

Herman notes how important mentorship, collaboration and networking are to people looking to advance their careers, particularly for women. She says seeing others in leadership positions whether it be as instructors, program heads or deans provides a good example.

Adds Suru, "Moving into leadership roles you find out about the supports that are missing and why women don't apply to a lot of the areas. It's really eye opening. There are barriers and I've been working to try to reduce those barriers. I like to be an advocate and a supporter, but it's really the groups within our organization that are moving the needle."

"I've been lucky throughout my career. People believed in me and saw that I could move into these leadership positions. You learn new things. You develop your leadership skills and work on communication."

Suru is quick to note the importance of teamwork in shaping the Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades. "Our faculty's leadership team consistently goes above and beyond every day, and I am incredibly privileged to be part of such a remarkable group. Everybody works well together, and we all have a shared vision. They truly care about Sask Polytech, the employees and students, so I'm very lucky."

As the Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades continues to make strides in industry, Suru takes time to reflect on her career, always with an eye to the future.

"I've truly enjoyed every role I've had the privilege of holding throughout my career. What's made all the difference, and the reason I've remained at Sask Polytech for 40 years, is the incredible people I've had the pleasure of working with and working for. It's hard to believe that I've been here for that long," she says. "Our programs are outstanding, offering top-tier training to our students, and ultimately, that's why we're here - for the students.  We are committed to delivering training that meets the needs of the province and the demands of the workforce."

The Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades encompasses four schools, which include most of the engineering, technology and trades training at Sask Polytech. The future-forward programming is diverse, ranging from agriculture and mining to technology, natural resources and renewable energy.

Sask Polytech is proud to share the story of a leader in technology and skilled trades, as a sponsor of the provincial skills competition March 28 in Saskatoon hosted by Skills Canada Saskatchewan, showcasing the best from technical skills to skilled trades. The Skills Canada National Competition will be held in Regina from May 28-31.